Let’s Talk Exercise
A little more than five weeks ago, I started a new exercise program called BBG or Bikini Body Guide. There is an app, called SWEAT, that guides you through the workouts, even timing them out for you. It’s really simple to use, and, you can do most of the workouts from anywhere. I did BBG while I was in Mexico recently.
I also can easily do it at home. To learn more about BBG and the SWEAT app, be sure to check out this post here (after week 1).
Stylish Activewear
For me, a large part of finding motivation to workout is… new workout clothes. Whaaattt? You knew there would be some style thrown in!
So… I partnered with ebay, to show you some stylish, modern, and affordable activewear!
Five Week BBG Update
After five weeks, my body doesn’t look much different from the front… as you can see above.
I do notice a little more definition in the side of my tummy. That muscle sometimes called, ‘the slice.”
I also notice a bit more definition in my arms.
From the side view (below)… the difference is much more noticeable.
The Side View
From the side view above, you can clearly see some progress, albeit subtle. I’m encouraged by these pictures… AND the way my clothes are fitting me.
I notice the the tummy looks a bit leaner, and more toned, especially in the area right above my belly button.
I’m also down a few pounds. I did not start this to lose weight, but rather to get stronger and leaner.
These Alala cropped leggings (above) are one of my favorites. You can order a pair on ebay here (for a lot less than retail).
The Scoop on Shopping ebay
For those of you who haven’t been on ebay in a while… I have something VERY exciting to share:
Most of all merchandise on eBay (just over 80%) … is NEW. Brand New. No bidding necessary.
All you have to do is check “New with tags” … and the “Buy it Now” boxes. Both are on the left side of the screen.
If you are looking for activewear, I would get started here.
Activewear Brands I Love
1) Terez
2) Onzie
3) Alo Yoga
4) Beyond Yoga
5) Under Armour
6) Nike
Cardio
The BBG program suggests doing three, 35-minute cardio sessions per week.
The part I LOVE…is that the cardio can be anything from walking to hiking, to cycling or skiing! I am doing a mix of all of these.
WHY the heck didn’t I do this before??
It doesn’t matter if you have clocked a certain number of miles, or done a specific type of cardio… just move for 35 minutes, 3 times a week.
It’s very freeing…
Walking and Hiking
Since I now live in one of the most beautiful places on earth (more about Telluride here and here.)… I really enjoy hiking,
Taking Traveler on long, snowy walks in Mountain Village (above) is one of the ways I get my cardio done.
Depending on the day, Telluride can range in temperate from 0 degrees to 50 in the winter. It’s important to dress for the weather.
On the day above, the sun was out, and it was really warm, especially as I was walking.
On chillier days, I would simply add a scarf and hat.
What to Wear
So what do you wear… when you are out walking or hiking in chilly temps?
I ALWAYS layer up. Layering is key! When you are properly layered, you should not get cold (for a while).
If you want to learn more about layering, you should watch my layering 101 video here.
I’m thinking about ordering one of these really chic layering puffers here.
They are so thin, they layer beautifully under coats and jackets.
Shop all women’s activewear on ebay here.
The Exact Layers
The picture above gives you a closer look at the layers. But essentially here’s the formula:
1) Base Layer
After my sports bra, I add a base layer, which is usually a warm, wool-blend, long-sleeve top, with dry wicking.
I like this option from ebay.
2) Vest
The second piece is a vest. It’s generally a puffer vest that is water resistant. This helps to keep your body extra warm.
3) Fleece
The next layer is a pull-over, long-sleeve fleece by The North Face. Here are some similar options on ebay.
If I get warm, I can easily take this off and tie it around my waist.
4) Puffer Coat
And, lastly I throw on a puffer coat. In the winter here, you really need that last layer. Unless you are running, rather than walking.
I’ve called it, “the cake” before. It’s kind of like making your own layered cake…with clothes! 😉
This coat, by SAM. New York, by the way, is one of my all-time favorites!
I love how the coat is stylish and modern, but also has functional features like the thumbhole sleeves.
Shop more SAM. coats and jackets on ebay here.
Footwear
Since the snow isn’t that deep on this trail, I can get away with my Asics running shoes with some Yak Trax for traction (above).
But in deeper snow, I opt for my snow & waterproof Salomon boots below.
Shop more running shoes on ebay here.
Shop Footwear
Snow & Waterproof Hiking Boots
These boots by Salomon (above) are SO good in the snow. I walk up the ski trails in these without any problem. Salomon makes THE BEST hiking sneakers and boots.
If you visit Telluride, you will quickly notice that most locals have a pair.
That’s how I figured it out. And, now I’ve recommended them to a lot of friends… and all of you , of course!
They are lightweight, and have SO much traction, which is essential whether you are hiking in the summer or winter.
Don’t forget about your socks. Wool blend socks are the warmest. Smartwool and Ugg both have great options.
Skiing
Skiing is another outdoor activity I have access to here in Telluride.
We actually live VERY close to a ski trail, so I can walk about 50 yards… and pop my skis on!
I never really thought of skiing as exercise, but it IS. Yay! Especially when you are an intermediate skier like me…and there is a whole lot of quad going on.
Ski Gear on ebay
I love to mix things up with my gear, but I have a hard time paying full price. My husband and I are both always find amazing deals on eBay.
My coat above is by Nils. I really love this brand! My pants are by Toni Sailer…another luxe line.
Check out Nils on ebay here. I LOVE this jacket!
Other ski clothing brands to look out for on ebay:
1) Spyder,
2) Sportalm,
3) SKEA,
4) Kjus,
5) Obermeyer,
6) The North Face,
7) Helly Hansen,
8) Bogner and
9) Montcler
10) Nils
Sometimes I just click on these brands to see what pops up! You can even hunt for goggles, neck warmers, base layers and the actual skies.
Remember to check those “New,” and “Buy it Now” boxes. Both are on the left side of the screen.
*HUGE thank you to eBay for sponsoring this post. All products were picked out and purchased by me. I ONLY partner with brands and businesses I love.
Please let me know if you have any questions. Don’t forget to subscribe to my exclusive newsletter.
And, thank you SO much for stopping by!
[…] One of the key components for me is exercise. Scientifically, working out increasing endorphins in the brain. And, science doesn’t lie. It boosts your mood, lifts your spirits, and makes you feel physically stronger and better. I can tell the difference when I don’t work out. I’m a little more down, I don’t feel very good about myself, I tend to eat things I shouldn’t eat, and it just spirals. (Watch the video of my workout routine here.) […]
Hi Erin! I didn’t do very good with my new year’s exercise resolution….. getting ready to ramp it up again. Finding time is the biggest challenge! I leave the house by 7am and home by 5pm. Dinner and family time and I’m ready for bed! I need to force in 30 minutes a day. Your progress is inspiring for only 5 weeks! What do your meals look like?
hi my name is melanie im from perth, western australia…i happened upon your you tube videos a few months ago and am absolutely addicted. i do find it a little difficult to relate some times to all the american brands you refer to cause im in australia but i just turned 39 and am a mum of three…. i love this idea of looking good even when you feel like you dont have your shit together. thank you so much for your inspiration and always motivating me to look semi-glam. i would love love love to see more ideas for outfits for mums to wear… on the go when running around.
again thank you for your amazing content, i literally hang out for every video posted
cheers
Hi Erin! Thanks for the update! I’m really curious to know overtime how you feel bbg shapes your body as opposed to the Tracy Anderson method. I used to do Tracy Anderson and then got into doing high intensity workouts over the past couple years. Result: I am about 10 pounds heavier and have a fair bit more muscle/meat in my bones. It doesn’t look bad but I kind of prefer a slightly girly more “delicate” look- and a lot of my expensive pants are now super tight. My thighs and butt have definitely “grown” quit a few inches which I am not thrilled about (I don’t care about this big butt trend..: it’s not for me). I’d be curious to know how your results take shape, and if within a couple months you’d prefer to go back to Tracy style workouts. Personally I’m trying to cut back on the high intensity and focus on more Pilates style workouts and longer cardio…’but I’d be curious to know if the bbg method has a more slimming effect bc then maybe I’d give it a try? I just r ally want to slim down to my old self again and am feeling a bit discouraged.
Thanks and also I should state – you look absolutely amazing!